
Member
Dr. Nkiru Balonwu
Nkiru is Founder and Managing Partner of organisational strategy and stakeholder engagement consultancy, RDF. The company provides expertise in investor relations, social outreach, government relations, boards, reputation management, and partnerships to execute strategy through successful communication. Within the first twelve months of its formation, RDF has already worked with more than a dozen entities including brands, state institutions, and C-Suite executives. Prior to forming RDF, Nkiru was CEO for Spinlet – the leading digital music platform for African music across the continent and around the world. Before this, she held positions as a Lecturer at the Faculty of Law at the University of Lagos and was a founding member of Ratio Consulting. Nkiru is also creator of Bukkipa, a user-friendly mobile app that simplifies the accountancy and cash flow management processes for individuals and SMEs.
Passionate about women in business and the democratizing power of emerging communications technologies, Nkiru is a founding member of the AWB (African Women on Board) organization, and currently sits on the boards of Rele Gallery (rele.co) and Girly Essentials (girlyessentials.com.ng). She also regularly works as a mentor to younger women wishing to enter executive-level roles in businesses in Africa. A firm believer in placing effective communications at the heart of successful business and social strategy, Nkiru is an inspiring speaker and media commentator with a unique voice.
Nkiru holds a Doctorate Degree from the University of California, Berkeley, a Masters from University College London (UCL) and a First Degree from the University of Manchester. She has been called to the Bar in Nigeria, England & Wales and New York State.